Wednesday, December 16, 2020

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.

Matthew 2:9-10
“Adoration of the Magi” by Ruebens, Madrid image from Wikipedia.org

THREE KINGS

When I think of the Three Kings I am surrounded by a cavalcade of wonderful memories.  The painting attached, however, seems full of confusion and foreboding. But baby Jesus seems not to be worried about anything.  He is the bright star.

In my family there actually were three Kings.  They would show up together at every holiday gathering laden with gifts for everyone.  Every Christmas card I received from them were of the theme of the Magi.  They would bring a birthday cake for the newborn Christ Child.  They did not need a star to guide them to Jesus.  He lived in their hearts. 

The manger was an integral part of my Christmas decorations.  It could not be completely set up until it was the right time.  So there we were hiding the baby Jesus until Christmas Eve when he could be properly placed in the crib accompanied by singing Happy Birthday dear Jesus. 

More was missing….the Kings were not there.  They were in some random parts of the house following the guiding light of the star.  They were moved slowly toward the manger and by Epiphany Sunday they arrived with their gifts in the manger.  They must have been exhausted by my children impeding the progress of their journey at every turn.

An important lesson was learned at my home.  Sometimes even if you see a star and your destination seems clear it still might be difficult to find Jesus.  You need faith, patience and perseverance.

How is your search for Jesus going this year?

Joanne Angelo